The Ultimate Irobot Roomba Comparison 2022 - Compare iRobot Roomba models to find out their differences
Last edited by Matt Clayton 4 weeks ago
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You heard that iRobot makes the best robotic vacuums, but you’re not sure which Roomba to buy? Overwhelmed by the array of models? Looking for the best Roomba for pets?
Then you’re on the right page. This is the current Roomba lineup:
This ultimate iRobot Roomba comparison with a Roomba comparison chart included will set the different models against each other so that you can make an informed choice.
After all, you don’t want to spend that much money on something that doesn’t live up to your expectations.
If you want the short version...
If you're looking for a mid-range option with reasonable pricing and some of the critical advanced features.
- Strong suction
- Excellent performance
- 90-minute runtime
- Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes
- High-efficiency filter
- Large dirt cup
- Virtual Wall Barrier included
- Wi-Fi connectivity
If you want cutting edge features and advanced technology together with top-class performance and ultimate ease-of-use.
- Powerful suction
- Incredible performance
- Recharge and Resume feature
- Dual Multi-surface rubber brushes
- High-efficiency filters
- Excellent price-quality ratio
- Large dirt cup
- Smart mapping
- Keep-Out Zones
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Advanced features
Detailed Roomba Comparison 2021
[toc]
Here’s the deal:
A robot vacuum cleaner is one of those things you don’t necessarily need, but you probably won’t regret buying. Numerous satisfied owners are saying that they just wish they had bought theirs earlier.
With the release of the new s9 vacuum, Roomba has yet again taken robotic vacuums to the next level. There are so many products now, it’s impossible to compare Roomba models to choose the one that fits your budget and needs without doing extensive research.
But you’re in for a treat!
We already did the hard work. We used more than 50 hours for detailed research to compare Roomba models and to create this ultimate iRobot comparison article.
Information on the Roomba website can often be a bit vague and unclear, so we used many different sources to pull together all the critical information on their products.
To keep this guide relevant and up to date we have not included products that have been discontinued.
Why does this matter?
Because in this product category improvements in design and technology roll out fast and frequently it makes no sense to invest in a robot that quickly becomes outdated.
This iRobot comparison sets Roomba vacuums side by side so that you can easily see the differences between different Roomba models. It will save you time and money by helping you find the vacuum that meets your needs without spending a cent too much.
Here goes.
First of all, here are the basic differences between the models to help you get an overview of how the models relate to each other. It will help you compare iRobot models.
Full Roomba comparison chart
What's the difference between Roombas?
The critical differences between iRobot Roomba robotic vacuums apply to these features: suction power, runtime, style of the brush roll, filtration, dirt cup capacity, and how advanced the navigation is. You can tell the differences between the products by comparing the named features.The easiest way to compare different Roomba models is to have a look at the comparison chart below.
Also, here's a video that summarizes pretty nicely the differences and similarities of the new Roomba models. Roomba S9 had not been released at the time, but you can read more about the newest Roomba family member below.
This iRobot comparison gives you a good idea on how the vacuums in the current Roomba lineup compare to each other.
But since you are making a significant investment, you probably want to know how these vacuums compare to each other in practice. Below we have gathered all the essential information on each product so that you can rest assured you have made the right choice.
Roomba 675 vs. Roomba 690 - basic but functional
Roomba 675 - The best budget robotic vacuum on the market
If you’re looking for a Roomba robotic vacuum, but you’re on a tight budget Roomba 675 could be an excellent choice. It has enough power and all the necessary features to make most users happy, but the price is very reasonable.
Considering this vacuum has a long runtime, great filtration, and excellent performance, it really gives value for your money.
It has some shortcomings like a basic navigation system and a non-rubberized brush roll, but a few drawbacks should be expected at this price point.
It is the successor of the affordable Roomba 614 but added with wifi connectivity.
If you compare it to Roomba 690, which is slightly more expensive, you will notice they are pretty much identical except for the fact that 675 does not come with a virtual barrier (which can be bought separately if necessary).
What our comparison covers:
- At a glance + a video
- Features
- Runtime
- Navigation
- Connectivity
- Controlling the vacuum
- Filtration
- Performance
- Testing - Performance ratings
- Maintenance
- Pros & Cons
- Bottom line
1. At a glance + a Video
Roomba 675 continues with the same round design, and stylish look Roomba vacuums are known for. It has a soft bumper covering the front half and a practical handle for picking up the vacuum.
- Runtime: 90 mins
- Scheduling: Yes
- Self-Charging: Yes
- Resumes cleaning: No
- Cliff Detectors: Yes
- Full Bin Indicator: No
- Dirt detection: Basic
- Navigation: iAdapt 1.0 (basic)
- Filter: High-Performance AeroVac
- Roller brushes: Blades and bristles
- Connectivity: iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Virtual Walls included: 0
- Dirt bin capacity: 0.3 liters
- Height: 3.6 inches
- Diameter: 13.0 inches
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Noise level: 60-70 dB depending on the surface
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
3. Testing - Performance ratings
Testing how Roomba 675 performs on different surfaces. This picture was taken before the test.
And this after the test - the results are convincing.
4. Maintenance
For top performance, you should empty the dirt bin regularly and periodically replace the filter.
- Empty the dirt bin regularly
- Free tangled hair from the brush roll
The maintenance is pretty simple, but you will have to factor in the maintenance costs that you can expect to be around 30USD per year if you follow the recommended maintenance schedule and replace parts accordingly.
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- Filter: 2 months
- Side sweeper: 6 months
- Front wheel: 12 months
- Brush rolls: 12 months
- Battery:18-36 months
5. Pros and Cons listed
Roomba 675
Pros:
- Wifi-connectivity for your smartphone
- Easy-to-use application
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to use and operate
- Good cleaning performance
- Long runtime
- Charges quickly
- Efficient filtration
- Edge-sweeping brush
Cons:
- Lower cleaning performance than advanced models
- Doesn’t automatically resume cleaning after recharging
- Virtual wall is not included
- Can miss spots
Roomba 690 - Excellent reasonably priced vacuum with all the essential features
Recommended for someone: looking for a lower midrange robotic vacuum that has all the necessary features like wifi connectivity, virtual wall barriers, scheduled cleaning, and long runtime.
Roomba 675 and 690 are basically the same product with small differences in appearance and the fact that 675 does not have a Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier included.
Both vacuums offer excellent value for money as they have many of the essential Roomba features but a reasonable price.
If you want a top-notch robotic vacuum, you should check out the more advanced Roomba models like e5, 960, i7 or S9. However, if you want a functional robotic vacuum with fair pricing Roomba 675 and 690 are good choices for you.
The 600 series does not have all the bells and whistles, but it does offer fantastic cleaning results and ease of use. It has many features that many other vacuums from other brands in this price category don't have like scheduling, high-quality filters, wifi-connectivity, virtual barriers, and a long runtime. With these functions, it offers more than you would expect with the price you pay. You can see more images and the latest price of Roomba 690 by clicking here.
What our comparison covers:
- At a glance + a video
- Features
- Runtime
- Navigation
- Connectivity
- Controlling the vacuum
- Filtration
- Performance
- Testing - Performance ratings
- Maintenance
- Pros & Cons
- Bottom line
1. At a glance + a Video
Roomba 690 has the same round appearance we are used to seeing from iRobot vacuums. The design is sleek and stylish, and it has a practical handle for carrying the vacuum and a soft bumper to protect delicate items at your home.
- Runtime: 90 mins
- Scheduling: Yes
- Self-Charging: Yes
- Resumes cleaning: No
- Cliff Detectors: Yes
- Full Bin Indicator: No
- Dirt detection: Basic
- Navigation: iAdapt 1.0 (basic)
- Filter: High-Performance AeroVac
- Roller brushes: blades and bristles
- Connectivity: iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Virtual Walls included: 1
- Dirt bin capacity: 0.3 liters
- Height: 3.6 inchesDiameter: 13.0 inches
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
- Noise level: 60-70 dB depending on the surface
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
3. Testing - Performance ratings
Testing how Roomba 690 performs on different surfaces. Here's a low-pile carpet, before the test.
4. Maintenance
To keep up the top performance, you need to:
- Empty the dirt bin regularly
- Free tangled hair from the brush roll
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- Filter: 2 months
- Side sweeper: 6 months
- Front wheel: 12 months
- Brush rolls: 12 months
- Battery:18-36 months
Maintenance is fairly straightforward and simple, but you should be aware that following the recommended maintenance schedule will add about 30 bucks in maintenance cost every year.
5. Pros and Cons listed
Roomba 690
Pros:
- Wifi-connectivity for your smartphone
- Easy-to-use application
- 1 Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier
- Great price-quality ration
- Easy to use and operate
- Good cleaning performance
- Long runtime
- Charges quickly
- High-performance filter
- Edge-sweeping brush
Cons:
- Lower cleaning performance than advanced models
- Doesn’t automatically resume cleaning after recharging
- Can miss spots
Roomba 675 or Roomba 690? Which Roomba to buy?
Both models are the same when it comes to:
- Overall design
- Size
- Navigation
- Runtime
- Connectivity
What’s the difference?
Roomba 690 is more expensive, but it comes with a virtual barrier wall that is not included with the Roomba 675.
- If you need to block delicate objects or you have an area you don’t want the robot to access, Roomba 690 is the obvious choice because the 675 does not come with a Virtual Wall. See the latest price here.
- However, if blocking a particular area is not essential to you, and you are on a tight budget, you can save a few bucks by choosing the Roomba 675. See the latest price here.
However, the 675 is compatible with the Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier which means you could start with it and add a virtual wall later on if you feel you need one.
Roomba e5/e6 - The midrange option
Roomba e5/e6
Roomba e5 has the basic features like wifi connectivity, virtual wall barriers, scheduled cleaning and long runtime plus some extras such as better brush roll, larger dirt cup, 5 times the suction and a High-Efficiency Filter – excellent additions for a pet owner.
This vacuum offers excellent performance, smart home capabilities, and an upper mid-range price. Click here to see the latest price.
It seems like e5 is replacing the 800 series vacuums as a midrange option between the highly advanced 900 series and the lower budget 600 series vacuums.
Compared to Roomba 600 series, the e5 is a slightly more advanced product. It has advanced mapping, better filtration, larger dirt bin, and advanced brush roll technology.
On the other hand, the e5 is not as advanced as the 900 series vacuums or the new i7 and S9 vacuums. It doesn’t have the self-emptying feature or smart mapping. It will remember where it has cleaned, but because it can’t map its surroundings, you cannot direct it to clean a specific area. On the other hand, it has many of the same features like Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes and Advanced AeroForce filter. It also has a longer runtime of 90 minutes compared to the 75 minutes of 960, i7, and S9.
Although the e5 sounds like a tempting midrange option, we would mainly recommend it to pet users as opposed to the 675 or 690. Many users will probably be just as satisfied with one of the 600 series vacuums without paying the extra money.
But for pet owners (or families with kids) the extra features are probably worth the cash. Better suction, larger dirt bin, advanced brush roll, and more efficient filtration make sure you get the level of clean you need in households with animals or children - and make e5 the best Roomba pet vacuum.
What our comparison covers:
- At a glance + a video
- Features
- Runtime
- Navigation
- Connectivity
- Controlling the vacuum
- Filtration
- Performance
- Testing - Performance ratings
- Maintenance
- Pros & Cons
- Bottom line
1. At a glance + a Video
The Roomba e5 has the same round and sleek design we are used to seeing in Roomba vacuums. It has a convenient handle for carrying, three buttons on top and a soft bumper to protect furniture at your home.
- Runtime: 90 mins
- Scheduling: Yes
- Self-Charging: Yes
- Resumes cleaning: No
- Cliff Detectors: Yes
- Full Bin Indicator: Yes
- Dirt detection: Basic
- Navigation: iAdapt 2.0
- Filter: Advanced AeroForce filter (HEPA)
- Roller brushes: Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes
- Connectivity: iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Virtual Walls included: 1
- Dirt bin capacity: 0.5 liters
- Height: 3.6 inches
- Diameter: 13.3 inches
- Weight: 7.2 lbs
- Noise level: 60-70 dB depending on the surface
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
3. Testing - Performance ratings
We tested how Roomba e5 performs on different surfaces.
The results speak for themselves.
4. Maintenance
- Empty the dirt bin regularly
- Free tangled hair from the brush roll
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- HEPA filter: 2 months
- Side sweeper: 6 months
- Front wheel: 12 months
- Brush rolls: 12 months
- Battery:18-36 months
Maintenance is relatively easy and straightforward, but you should be aware that following the recommended maintenance schedule will add about 35 bucks in maintenance costs every year.
5. Pros and Cons listed
Roomba e5
Pros:
- Best Roomba for pets
- 5x suction compared to 600 series robots
- Wifi-connectivity for your smartphone
- Better navigation than 600 series robots
- Easy-to-use application
- 1 Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier
- Easy to use and operate
- Advanced Dual Rubberized Brush Roll
- Excellent cleaning performance
- Long runtime
- Charges quickly
- Advanced High-Efficiency filter
- Edge-sweeping brush
- Larger 0.5-liter washable dirt din
Cons:
- Doesn’t automatically resume cleaning after recharging
- You can not direct the robot to clean a specific room or area
- Does not create a floor plan
Roomba 960, i7/i7+ and s9/s9+ - Top class design and advanced features
Ok, so we have gone through the budget and the midrange options.
Next, it’s time to have a look at the top dogs. Roomba 960, i7/i7+ and s9/s9+ are the most advanced robotic vacuums from iRobot. They come at a pretty high price, but they also have the features to match.
If you’re looking for the best of the best and you don’t want to settle for anything less, keep reading.
Roomba 960 - Most of the advanced features but not quite the top dog
A top robotic vacuum with most of the advanced features from Roomba, but not the best of the best. Excellent performance without the fine-tuning brought by the latest advanced features
- Recommended for someone: looking for a high-end vacuum but not interested in splurging on the leading i7 or S9 Roomba vacuum.
The Roomba 960 is the latest model in the iRobot 900 lineup – a series that used to be the cream of the crop in the robotic vacuum category.
This vacuum is still an excellent choice with features that give rivals a run for their money, but iRobot has once again taken the competition to another level with their i7 and S9 models leaving 960 behind in rankings.
i7 and S9 offer stronger suction, automatic dirt disposal, Imprint Smart mapping, and customizable cleaning preferences – all of which the 960 lacks.
On the other hand, Roomba 960 is a step up from the e5 vacuum bringing smarter navigation and the Charge&Resume feature into the game.
What it means is that the 960 is somewhere in the middle between e5 and i7/S9 – in features as well as regarding the price.
If you’re looking for the ultimate robotic vacuum, you should go for the i7 or S9. But, as iRobot is probably slowly fading out the production on 960, you might be able to get an excellent deal and save some cash. You can see the latest price here.
What our comparison covers:
- At a glance + a video
- Features
- Runtime
- Navigation
- Connectivity
- Controlling the vacuum
- Filtration
- Performance
- Testing - Performance ratings
- Maintenance
- Pros & Cons
- Bottom line
1. At a glance + a Video
Again, the circular design is smart and polished like we are used to seeing in Roomba vacuums. All of their vacuums look pretty much alike with the handle for carrying on the top. Only colors and small details vary in each model, like the onboard camera that is placed on top of this 960 vacuum.
- Runtime: 75 mins (recharges and resumes)
- Scheduling: Yes
- Self-Charging: Yes
- Resumes cleaning: Yes
- Cliff Detectors: Yes
- Full Bin Indicator: Yes
- Dirt detection: Advanced
- Navigation: iAdapt 2.0
- Filter: Advanced AeroForce filter (HEPA)
- Roller brushes: Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes
- Connectivity: iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Virtual Walls included: 1
- Dirt bin capacity: 0.3 liters
- Height: 3.6 inches
- Diameter: 13.8 inches
- Weight: 8.5 lbs
- Noise level: 60-70 dB depending on the surface
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
3. Testing - Performance ratings
We tested Roomba 960 on hard flooring, as well as low-pile and high-pile carpets. This picture was taken before the test.
Our test confirms that Roomba 960 is a solid performer on different surfaces.
4. Maintenance
To keep up the top performance, you need to
- Empty the dirt bin regularly
- Free tangled hair from the brush roll
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- HEPA filter: 2 months
- Side sweeper: 6 months
- Front wheel: 12 months
- Brush rolls: 12 months
- Battery:18-36 months
Maintenance is fairly straightforward and simple, but you should be aware that following the recommended maintenance schedule will add about 35 bucks in maintenance costs every year.
5. Pros and Cons listed
Roomba 960
Pros:
- 5x suction compared to 600 series robots
- Wifi-connectivity for your smartphone
- Better navigation than 600 series robots
- Charge and Resume feature
- Cleaning reports
- Easy-to-use application
- 1 Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier
- Easy to use and operate
- Advanced Dual Rubberized Brush Roll
- Excellent cleaning performance
- Long runtime
- Charges quickly
- AeroForce High-Efficiency filter
- Edge-sweeping brush
Cons:
- You can not direct the robot to clean a particular room or area
- Lacks Power Boost Mode
- Small dirt bin that is not washable
Roomba i7 / i7+ A highly popular advanced robotic vacuum with all the bells and whistles
- Recommended for anyone looking for an outstanding first-rate robovac.
The only difference between i7 and i7+ is the Advanced Base with the self-emptying feature which is why we will be reviewing them together.
The i7+ comes with the Advanced Base while i7 is just compatible and you can add the base later on if you feel you need the upgrade.
If you want a high-performing robotic vacuum that requires minimal effort from your part, the i7+ should be your choice. If, on the other hand, you feel like you want fantastic performance and features, but you don’t mind emptying the dirt bin yourself, you can save quite a few bucks by picking the i7.
The i7+ is a top-class robotic vacuum. It comes at a high price, but the features are incredibly advanced.
With the Imprint Smart Mapping feature, Smart Map, Keep-Out Zones and self-emptying base that empties the vacuums dirt container by itself for up to 30 times, it’s almost completely a hands-off solution for vacuuming.
What our comparison covers:
- At a glance + a video
- Features
- Runtime
- Navigation
- Connectivity
- Controlling the vacuum
- Filtration
- Performance
- Testing - Performance ratings
- Maintenance
- Pros & Cons
- Bottom line
1. At a glance + a Video
- Runtime: 75 mins (recharges & resumes)
- Scheduling: Yes
- Self-Charging: Yes
- Resumes cleaning: Yes
- Cliff Detectors: Yes
- Full Bin Indicator: Yes
- Dirt detection: Advanced
- Navigation: iAdapt 3.0
- Filter: Advanced AeroForce filter (HEPA)
- Roller brushes: Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes
- Connectivity: iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Virtual Walls included: 1
- Keep-Out Zones on the app: update available for i7
- Dirt bin capacity: 0.5 liters
- Height: 3.6 inches
- Diameter: 13.3 inches
- Size of Advanced Base: 19 x 15.1 x 12.2 inches
- Weight: 7.4 lbs
- Noise level: 70-80 dB depending on the surface
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
3. Testing - Performance ratings
High-pile carpets put robot vacuums in a real test. However, the cleaning results of Roomba i7 were stellar.
4. Maintenance
To keep up the top performance, you need to
- Empty the dirt bin regularly
- Free tangled hair from the brush roll
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- HEPA filter: 2 months
- Side sweeper: 6 months
- Front wheel: 12 months
- Brush rolls: 12 months
- Battery:18-36 months
This is the recommended maintenance schedule, that will add about 35 dollars of maintenance costs every year to keep your vacuum in top shape.
If you have the Advanced base, you will have to add the small cost of disposal bags as well.
5. Pros and Cons listed
Roomba i7/i7+
Pros:
- Automatic Dirt Disposal (in i7+)
- 10x suction compared to 600 series robots
- Wifi-connectivity for your smartphone
- Imprint Smart Navigation
- Customized cleaning preferences
- Clean or schedule by room
- Charge and Resume feature
- Easy-to-use application
- 1 Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier
- Virtual Keep-Out Zones on the app
- Easy to use and operate
- Advanced Dual Rubberized Brush Roll
- Excellent cleaning performance
- Charges quickly
- AeroForce High-Efficiency filter
- Large 0.5-liter dirt cup
- Edge-sweeping brush
Cons:
- Round shape restricts the vacuum from thoroughly cleaning corners
Roomba s9/s9+ The most powerful; with new design
- Recommended for someone looking for cutting edge technology and incredibly strong suction. Outstanding cleaning power combined with the self-emptying base and top-class navigation.
The difference between s9 and s9+ is that the s9+ comes with the self-emptying home base while the s9 is only compatible, and you can get the advanced charging base separately. Since this is the only difference, we will review these vacuums together.
If you want the most advanced robotic vacuum out there that requires the minimum work from your part, then you should get the s9+ with the advanced base that empties the robot up to 30 times before you need to change the disposable dust bag.
But if you just want an incredible robovac and you'll be willing to empty the dirt container every now and then to save quite a few bucks, then the s9 should be your choice.
The s9 is a whole new vacuum with even more power and a new design. It is a top-class vacuum with incredible performance and navigation, and it will provide you with an outstanding hands-free cleaning experience.
What our comparison covers:
- At a glance + a video
- Features
- Runtime
- Navigation
- Connectivity
- Controlling the vacuum
- Filtration + Self-Emptying Home Base
- Performance
- Testing - Performance ratings
- Maintenance
- Pros & Cons
- Bottom line
1. At a glance + a Video
The new D-shape design makes this vacuum stand out from other Roomba vacuums and offers better cleaning results. The vacuum is black with rose gold details, and it looks smart and stylish like all previous Roomba vacuums. The new design also distributes the exhaust air more evenly preventing dust and dirt from being blown around by the robot.
- Runtime: 120 mins (recharges & resumes)
- Scheduling: Yes
- Self-Charging: Yes
- Resumes cleaning: Yes
- Cliff Detectors: Yes
- Full Bin Indicator: Yes
- Dirt detection: Advanced
- Navigation: iAdapt 3.0
- Filter: Advanced AeroForce filter (HEPA)
- Roller brushes: Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes (30% wider)
- Connectivity: iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Virtual Walls included: 1
- Keep-Out Zones on the app: update available for S9
- Dirt bin capacity: 0.5 liters
- Height: 3.5 inches
- Diameter: 12.5 inches
- Size of Advanced Base: 19 x 15.1 x 12.2 inches
- Weight: 8.15 lbs
- Noise level: 65- 68 dB depending on the surface
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
3. Testing - Performance ratings
4. Maintenance
To keep up the top performance, you need to
- Empty the dirt bin regularly
- Free tangled hair from the brush roll
Recommended maintenance schedule:
- HEPA filter: 2 months
- Side sweeper: 6 months
- Front wheel: 12 months
- Brush rolls: 12 months
- Battery:18-36 months
This is the recommended maintenance schedule, that will add about 35 dollars of maintenance costs every year to keep your vacuum in top shape.
If you have the Advanced base, you will have to add the small cost of disposal bags as well.
5. Pros and Cons listed
Roomba s9/s9+
Pros:
- Automatic Dirt Disposal (in s9+)
- 40x suction compared to 600 series robots
- Wifi-connectivity for your smartphone
- Imprint Smart Navigation
- Customized cleaning preferences
- Clean or schedule by room
- Charge and Resume feature
- Easy-to-use application
- 1 Dual Mode Virtual Wall Barrier
- Keep-Out Zones on the app
- Easy to use and operate
- Advanced Dual Rubberized Brush Roll
- Excellent cleaning performance
- Charges quickly
- AeroForce High-Efficiency filter
- New 0.55-liter dirt cup
- Edge-sweeping brush
Cons:
- Price
Roomba i7 vs. Roomba i7+? Which one to pick?
The only difference is really that the i7+ has the Advanced Base included while the i7 is only compatible and you can add the self-emptying base later on if you want to.
You have to decide whether having the vacuum empty itself 30 times before you have to change the disposable dust bag is worth the extra bucks for you. Compare the price difference of these two by clicking here and here.
Roomba 960 vs. Roomba i7? Which Roomba to buy?
If you want a high-quality product that functions well, but you don’t necessarily need the cutting edge technology, you could pick Roomba 960. You might get a good deal since it is an older release.
If, however, you are looking for the best there is with all the bells and whistles, you should opt for the i7. It has the most advanced navigation and features.
Roomba 960 vs. 980? Which one to pick?
Roomba 980 robot vacuum is definitely the winner if you compare these two products against each other. It has a longer runtime, carpet boost mode, two virtual walls, and better overall performance.
But. These vacuums are not from the newest iRobot lineup and Roomba will we be discontinuing their production at some point. The advantage is that you could get a nice discount for the Roomba 980.
But the disadvantage is that the vacuum does not have the most advanced technology and although it used to be the best robotic vacuum from iRobot, the Roomba i7 model is now the top dog.
If you get the 980, you’re not getting the best features out there, but it still is a great vacuum anyway. You can find our review on Roomba 980 here.
Roomba i7 vs. Roomba S9? Which one to choose?
Roomba i7 was released as the top vacuum not long before iRobot decided to bring the new Roomba s9 to the market. The vacuums are quite similar, although they do have their differences as well.
What it comes down to are small changes, and you have to decide if you want to spend a bit more money to get the latest cutting edge design.
Both vacuums have excellent performance, although the s9 does take it a notch further with the 40x stronger suction compared to the x10 on the i7 (compared to the 600-series). The most noticeable difference is the shape, which of course enables better performance in corners and next to edges – although tests have not been conclusive as to how much better.
The s9 is a bit thinner at 3.5 inches (the i7 is 3.7 inches) which allows it to glide under more low-lying furniture, but the difference is barely notable. The brush roll is the same, except that it is 30% wider on the s9 because of the new shape. The broader cleaning path will enable the robot to finish cleaning faster, but, again, it's not a significant improvement.
That being said, there are two upgrades that you should consider. The first is the Imprint Link Technology, which allows you to connect the Roomba s9 with the Braava M6 mopping robot. By using this technology, the two robots will sync vacuuming and mopping your floors automatically.
The other feature is the Anti-Allergen Seal, which makes sure that no allergens or other nasty particles escape the vacuum before the air has been pushed through the HEPA filter. This is a feature that people with allergies might find useful, and being able to reduce the number of allergens in your home is probably worth the extra investment. So for people who suffer from allergies or who have family members with sensitivities, we recommend the s9.
If you want the best of the best and the ultimate cleaning experience with the option to combine a mopping robot to your robovac, then the Roomba s9 is your obvious choice. But if you want a top-class robotic vacuum that performs well but doesn't need to have the latest cutting edge technology, then you should choose the Roomba i7.
We hope this iRobot model comparison has helped you compare Roombas to find the one that suits your needs best.
When you're looking at Roomba models compare these aspects to find the perfect one:
- Price - what is your budget and how much are you looking to spend
- Runtime - how large is your home? Is the runtime enough? Does the robot need to resume cleaning automatically?
- Brush roll - can you settle for the basic brush roll or do you need the advanced rubberized brush roll because of pets or kids?
- Dirt bin capacity - if you have pets that shed or a large house you probably need a larger bin
- Virtual walls and Keep-Out Zones - do you need to restrict areas of your home or give your pets privacy?
- Navigation - Smart Imprint Navigation opens up fantastic possibilities to control your robot and to customize your cleaning preferences. Do you want the convenient hands-free experience or do you want to skimp on the price and get only basic navigation?
The Roomba differences table will help you find the best Roomba model for you.
However, as this Roomba model comparison article shows you, all vacuums in the current line-up are worth their price and a good investment if you're trying to ease the load of doing chores at home.
Roomba – the number one brand
Roomba is probably the most well-known robotic vacuum brand. It is so popular that many people actually talk about Roombas when they actually mean any automatically vacuuming robot.
Roomba has become the household name for this fantastic and helpful new invention called a robotic vacuum.
For more than 25 years the iRobot company has been the pioneer in home robotics, and that is probably one of the reasons they are so highly regarded. Although it has taken quite a few years for robotic vacuums to reach this level functionality, iRobot has always been a step ahead of others.
The first Roomba was launched in 2002, but since that time there have been huge leaps forward in the technology of robotic vacuums. Navigation is at a whole other level as are performance and design. Robotic vacuums used to be inefficient, large, and with the poor navigation systems, they would need a lot of time to clean even a small home adequately.
Since then robot vacuums have gotten better and therefore a better investment - making them also more popular. Just a few years ago it was only those early adopters that would buy an expensive robot to keep their home clean, but now you are starting to see them in many homes.
And why wouldn’t you? People lead busy lives, and they want all the help they can get. Why not harness modern technology to your advantage?
Now that robot vacuums are quickly becoming more popular due to advances in technology, iRobot still keeps its position as number one - today they are the leading global consumer robot company, and they have sold more than 25 million robots worldwide.
The company builds and designs practical and valuable robot products for the home with the aim to provide users with highly functional machines that offer an excellent user experience.
Their home robots actually include not only Roomba robotic vacuum cleaners, but Braava mopping robots and Mirra pool cleaning robots as well. Roomba vacuum cleaners still being their lead star, but other products quickly building recognition as well.
What we love about the iRobot products is their cutting edge engineering and design. They strive to continually develop their robots to offer consumers an even better hands-free cleaning experience.
Their newest Roomba launch was in 2019 when they introduced the new S9 vacuum. Just shortly before they released the self-emptying technology of the i7+ vacuum. These vacuums are the first-ever robotic vacuums that can empty themselves for up to 30 times before you need to change the disposable dust bag. It offers the most advanced hands-free cleaning experience on the market, and again iRobot engineers have been the first to come up with the technology.
Roomba really can be seen as the number one brand of robotic vacuums. With the largest market share and leading technology, they continue to stay at the top.
Also, Roomba robots are considered reliable, well-functioning, and durable products. Although they are complex machines, they rarely malfunction, and if they do, the customer service is fantastic.
If you’re considering a Roomba vacuum, you’re definitely making a great choice. Just choose your model, make a cup of coffee and watch your Roomba take care of vacuuming while you put your legs up and enjoy life.
What should I expect to pay for a Roomba?
After having a look at all these different Roombas, you might be confused with which one to choose. You want to spend your money wisely on something that actually does the job, but you don’t want to go with the high-end option if you don’t have to.
It’s very smart to compare your choices because the most expensive one is not necessarily the best option for your home. On the other hand, there is no point in wasting your money on something that does not pick up dirt as it should.
Pricewise you can basically divide the Roomba vacuums into three categories:
- Roomba 600 series vacuums are the budget option,
- Roomba e5 and some of the older 900 series vacuums can be considered midrange, and
- the new i7 and s9 vacuums are high-end vacuums with a high-end price.
What sets these vacuums apart are a few features like navigation, suction power, filtration and brush rolls. With the more up-end Roombas you get better cleaning performance, more customizable cleaning experience, and overall more advanced features. The video and table at the top of the page will quickly give you an idea of the differences between the vacuums.
But how much should you expect to pay for a Roomba? The price range is huge, and you can spend anywhere between 200 and 1300 dollars on these highly useful robots depending on the model you choose. You can check the up to date prices by clicking on the links above.
All Roomba vacuums are high-quality products with excellent features. Having one will make your life easier by taking care of vacuuming while you concentrate on the more important stuff. A Roomba will ease the stress of continually having to vacuum your home to keep that pet hair under control.
When buying one of these products, make sure you compare them against each other to find the one one that has the best price-quality ratio when compared to your unique needs. This will help you make an educated choice and to spend your money wisely.
Neato vs. Roomba. How does Neato compare to Roomba?
People often compare these two brands when they are looking for a perfect robotic vacuum. Both brands offer excellent products and advanced technology, but they have some very distinct differences as well:
- Neato is known for its D-shape vacuums that can easily reach corners when vacuuming. The shape also allows for a broader brush roll which makes vacuuming more effective. Roomba has resolved the problem of cleaning corners with an Edge-Sweeper that has long bristles. In Roomba vacuums, the side sweeper is standard, but only mid and upper range Neatos have this feature. Recently Roomba has also released the S9 model which has the D-shape made famous by Neato. Future will tell whether Roomba will be moving towards this new shape altogether.
- Roomba used to use devices called Virtual Wall Barriers to restrict the robot from entering certain areas. This type of physical device is not the easiest or most flexible way to set barriers, but most Roomba robots are compatible with this feature. It's only just recently that Roomba has added a virtual Keep-Out Zone to i7 and S9 models. These advanced robots allow you to create no-go lines on the app, while the less developed models still use the physical device.
- Neato, on the other hand, uses virtual No-Go lines you can draw on their app. This is a great way to create no-go zones and quite a bit more flexible than physical beacons.
These two aspects are what mostly differentiate between the products from each brand. They have smaller differences as well, but when you are trying to decide whether to get Neato or Roomba, you really have to have a look at the products individually.
Scroll up to take a closer look at different Roomba models and check out our review on Neato D6 to see what they have to offer.